Bringing HeForShe to the Generation Equality Forum

To the class of 2021.

Over half a decade ago, Emma Watson stood before the UN to encourage men to play their part in creating an equal world. Today, we look back on the journey we have taken and the progress we’ve made. 

There is a lot to celebrate. 

We celebrate the 3 million who took the pledge. The 30 world leaders - from Heads of State and CEOs to University Presidents - who came forward with ground-breaking solutions for transformation. And everyone who has ever spoken up, stood up, mobilized and taken actions, big and small, to advance equal rights.  More and more people everywhere understand and support the idea of gender equality. 

But this is just the beginning. 

We want a world where equal rights and shared opportunities are the norm. And only action will create this kind of long-lasting change. So here we are, about to take a step into a new era: the era of ‘do’. And we need you.

Not just to make your commitment, but to follow through - for the ones we love and the ones we don’t even know. To do a little more every day because that’s what will add up to big change. 

We are the generation to do it. 

The fight for equal rights is a way of life that we must all live every day. Generation Equality is bringing together people of every gender, age, ethnicity, race, religion and nationality to create the world we want to live in. The world we all deserve. It’s something we can only achieve together. 

So we’re inviting you to join us. Because we all are affected by gender equality, and because we all stand to gain something, women and men alike. Equality means gaining freedom from gender expectations. Gaining stronger connections by allowing room for vulnerability. Gaining opportunities without being held back by stereotypes. Gaining confidence in who we truly are.

To the ones who do.

Will you make changes at home, in the workplace, in your friendship circles, in government?

Will you challenge stereotypes for the sake of your daughters, sisters, mothers? 

Will you open up to your sons, fathers, and brothers?

Will you empower yourself, and inspire others to take action so we all can be free?